About
This slow-growing, Mexican species is quite rare in the UK but if you can find it, it is definitely worth a spot in your garden. It does require a bit more shelter than some Mahonias and needs well drained soil but it will reward you with racemes of perfumed, yellow flowers from late autumn into winter and whorls of pinnate, glossy green leaves, held on bright red stalks.
About the genus
Mahonia are evergreen shrubs with leathery, pinnate leaves which are often spine-toothed, and clustered racemes of sometimes fragrant yellow flowers, sometimes followed by black or purple berries
Growing conditions
SunlightFull shade, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectEast-facing, North-facing, West-facing, South-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitBushy, Columnar upright
FoliageEvergreen
Height1.5-2.5 metres
Spread1-1.5 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesArchitectural
FragranceFlower
ToxicityBerries are ornamental, not to be eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling
Care notes
CultivationGrow in humus-rich moist but well-drained soil, suited to full or partial shade in a sheltered position but tolerant of sun if soil is not too dry. See mahonia cultivation for further information
PruningPrune every other year to encourage bushy growth - pruning group 8.
PropagationPropagate by seed or semi-ripe cuttings
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to rust diseases and Powdery mildews, especially in dry weather.